Vernon

Battle for race track is over

Vernon lawyer Ed Woolley, who represented the Okanagan Equestrian Society, said basically the society could not afford to continue the fight.

“When you're a non-profit it's right in the name the amount of funds available. Especially when it comes to litigation and lawsuits, you are limited as to what you can do and how long you can stay in the fight,” said Woolley adding the city simply had deeper pockets than the society.

“We unfortunately were at a major disadvantage from that perspective. The battle is over and I guess the land at Kin Race Track will move on to its next phase in its history.”

Woolley said he hopes the city “chooses wisely” and the land is used for the benefit of the community “hopefully something sports related.”

UPDATE: 4:30 p.m.

The Okanagan Equestrian Society and the Vernon Jockey Club have abandoned their appeal of last year's BC Supreme Court decision that dismissed their claims against the City of Vernon over the future of Kin Racetrack.

“We are very pleased to hear the official outcome of this lengthy court case,” said Victor Cumming, Mayor of Vernon.

“We can now begin the process of engaging the public for ideas on the future use of this land, which is zoned for recreational uses. Our goal will be to determine a use for the land that provides benefit to a wide range of citizens.”

The Okanagan Equestrian Society had hoped to see a return to horse racing at the track.

ORIGINAL: 10:40 a.m.

The legal wrangling over the Kin Race Track is over.

Castanet has learned the long-dispute has come to an end.

The fate of the prime piece of real estate next to Kal Tire Place on 43rd Avenue has been at the centre of much debate and legal action for years between the equestrian society and the city.

A court ruled last year in favour of the city, but the equestrian society was looking at appealing that decision, but on Thursday, it was confirmed the battle is over.